KEITH HORNER JAILED FOR SURVEILLANCE CRIME IN MIDDLESBROUGH
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Middlesbrough, Keith Horner has been sentenced to six months in prison after being found guilty of voyeurism.The incident, which dates back to 2016, involved the defendant secretly recording individuals in his bathroom using a covertly installed camera.
Horner, a resident of Penistone Road in Middlesbrough, took extreme measures to hide his illicit activity.
He cut a hole in a wicker plant pot holder, cleverly concealing his iPhone within it.
This device was then positioned in such a way that it could record anyone using his bathroom without their knowledge or consent.
The scheme was eventually uncovered, leading to Horner’s arrest and subsequent trial.
When the authorities discovered the hidden camera, Horner initially offered an apology for his actions.
However, during his appearance at Teesside Crown Court, he denied any responsibility for the recordings.
The court heard that the victim, a woman whose identity is protected for legal reasons, was deeply affected by the incident.
In a heartfelt victim personal statement, she described the profound impact the invasion of her privacy had on her mental health and trust in others.
“I find it difficult to describe the pain, disappointment and disgust that I feel over what he has done,” she said.
“I feel utterly violated and don’t trust anyone anymore.
I sit alone every night and I do not want to see or be seen by anybody.” She also revealed ongoing health issues stemming from the trauma, including stress and anxiety, which continue to affect her daily life.
Prosecutor Paul Newcombe explained that the offence was committed in 2016.
Although Horner had previous convictions, none were related to sexual offences.
The victim managed to delete the footage Horner had recorded, but authorities believe there could have been up to 30 minutes of video stored on the device.
It remains uncertain whether the camera recorded continuously or was left running for the entire half-hour period.
Horner, aged 55, was convicted of voyeurism following a trial held last November.
His sentencing was scheduled for the previous month, but he was turned away from the court after arriving in a state described as ‘coughing and spluttering’.
Judge Stephen Ashurst dismissed a plea from Horner’s legal team for a suspended sentence, emphasizing the seriousness of the offence and Horner’s apparent lack of remorse.
“In truth, you were the pervert here trying to capture those images,” the judge stated.
“I have come to the conclusion that your offending is so serious that I simply cannot suspend the sentence in your case.
You made the decision to set up your phone in a way to record your victim.” As part of his punishment, Horner was subjected to a seven-year sexual harm prevention order and a notification period to monitor his behaviour.
Additionally, he was placed under a three-year restraining order to protect the victim from further contact or harassment.
The case has left a lasting scar on the community of Middlesbrough, highlighting the importance of vigilance and safeguarding against such invasive acts.
